The new Generation 6 race car gets a major test this week at Las Vegas Motor Speedway since the track is typical of many of the intermediate sized speedways that NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series will race at this year. Rain washed out qualifying on Friday which means the starting grid will be set according to the NASCAR rule book.

Matt Kenseth in his new ride, the Joe Gibbs No. 20, was fastest in the first practice session on Thursday and Kenseth's former teammate over at Roush-Fenway racing, Greg Biffle topped the second test session in the No. 16 American Red Cross/3M Ford. But it will defending NASCAR champion Brad Keselowski in his No. 2 Miller Lite Ford that starts on the pole because of the qualifying rainout.  This is the first time that qualifying has been rained out for a Cup race at Las Vegas.

Clint Bowyer will start second on Sunday, with Daytona 500 winner Jimmie Johnson starting third.  Kasey Kahne rolls off fourth and and Biffle will start fifth. Some other notable drivers include Tony Stewart starting in 9th, Dale Earnhardt Jr.in 12th, Las Vegas native Kyle Busch rolling off 13th, Mark Martin in the Aaron's Dream Machine will go from the 15th spot on the grid and last week's winner Carl Edwards will start 16th.

According to the NASCAR rule book, for the first three races of current season - the top 36 teams in the previous season owner points would make the race, then any winning driver or team owner from 2012 or 2013, as well as any past champions. After that, any of the top 36 teams in owner points this year would make the race, then it goes to qualifying attempts made this year.

 

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